This dip was a big hit at our family's Thanksgiving dinner. The flavors are bold, and may be a bit intimidating for the sensitive tasters, but, clearly a standout on the appetizer table. I served the dip with Frito Corn Chip Scoops, which have a reputation of overpowering the flavor of the dip. No such problem here. I prepared the sausage/onion hash before hand. After draining and cooling, transferred to a Rubbermaid 2.4qt container, mixed in the RoTel, then placed the cubed cream cheese on top, and refrigerated. This transported well to the event, and took 5 minutes heating in the microwave, stirring, and ready to serve. This would do best in a fondue pot or chafing dish to keep it hot during serving. When well mixed, the dip sort of looks like old oatmeal or cream ground beef (military veterans will identify this as S.O.S.), so, it is clear that the visual presentation requires chopped chives. I recommend keeping the chives on the large side. I wonder if adding thin slices of seeded Jalepenio, Green Pepper and Red Pepper might add some visual attractiveness? Great receipe Kate-K! Thanks for the good eats.

Reviewed On: Nov. 29, 2008

The problem with such a great recipe is that everyone feels entitled to add to it / make it their own. So, first, may I recognize and thank Trish for a lovely recipie. It worked exactly as published. It tasted great and drew the compliments of my guests. Thank you. My enhancements (take it or leave it)... - I used shortening to grease the pan. As a cast Iron fanatic I think I get better results with shortening, and it improves the seasoning. Salted butter has a tendency to stip seasoning from young pans. The result was a clean release of the loaf and a wounderful taste consistent with other review comments. - Cooking time was lengthened by using a cold cast Iron pan. I will compensate by oven warming the pan next time. - I covered the dish for a few minutes after removal (from 32 min cooking) to keep the loaf moist. This worked well. - I am a Vanilla nut and I will consider 3X or 4X the amount of Vanilla (sort of consistent with the over-the-top Amusement Park theme) this should be a little extreme, no? - To add calories, drizzle loaf with melted butter after 20 min. This will enhance browning and topping flavor. Great recipe, Trish. Thank you.

Reviewed On: Feb. 8, 2006